Gentian root

What is gentian root and how does it work?

Gentian root is a bitter substance that exerts a strong stimulus on the taste buds. As a result, they stimulate the production of saliva, gastric juice and bile and thus promote digestion. Bitter substances also have an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral effect. In addition to the bitter substances, gentian root also contains tannins, flavonoids and other secondary plant substances, which also have health-promoting properties.

Gentian root can help dogs with the following complaints in particular:

• Loss of appetite
• flatulence
• diarrhoea
• inflammation of the stomach lining
• Liver and gallbladder problems
• worm infestation
• skin problems
• infections

How can gentian root be used for dogs?

Gentian root is available in various dosage forms such as tea, tincture, powder or tablets. The dosage depends on the size and weight of the dog, but also on the severity of the symptoms. In general, you should always start with a low dose and slowly increase it until an improvement occurs. An overdose can lead to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Possible dosage

• Tea: Pour 250 ml of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried gentian root and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Add the cooled tea to the dog's food or drinking water. Depending on the size of the dog, give 50 to 200 ml 2 to 3 times a day.
• Tincture: Dissolve 1 to 2 drops per kilogram of body weight in a little water and give over the food or directly into the mouth. Administer 2 to 3 times a day.
• Powder: Stir 0.5 to 1 gram per kilogram of body weight into a little water or quark and give over the feed or directly into the mouth. Administer 2 to 3 times a day.
• Tablets: Tablets usually contain a standardized amount of bitter substances. The dosage depends on the package leaflet or the vet.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of gentian root for dogs?

Gentian root has many health benefits for dogs, especially for digestive problems. It can stimulate food intake, improve nutrient absorption, stabilize intestinal flora and ward off parasites. It can also relieve inflammation, strengthen the immune system and promote skin health.

However, gentian root also has some disadvantages that need to be considered. For one thing, it is very bitter and many dogs do not like to eat or drink it. It may therefore be necessary to use a few tricks to make it palatable to the dog. Secondly, gentian root can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea in sensitive dogs. You should therefore always dose carefully and pay attention to the dog's reaction.